As American voters wait anxiously for the outcomes of the last
races of Election 2006 on the other side of the Pacific, millions
of Beijingers took to polling stations yesterday to decide by whom
they prefer to be represented at people's congresses, the local
legislatures, of their district, county, or township.
The elections in Beijing involved more than 8 million voters in
18 districts and counties, as well as 183 townships.
That millions cast ballots in a matter of a single workday shows
efficient mobilization.
It certainly corroborates the municipal authorities' image as
capable organizers and mobilizers.
In the run-up to the elections, they did impressive homework in
accordance with election laws and local conditions.
From pollster training to polling booth setup, they demonstrated
meticulous care and adroit organizing expertise. They even prepared
presbyopic glasses for veterans, wheelchairs for people with
disabilities, secret ballot writing places, and emergency medical
services for voters.
A more inspiring factor behind the high voter turnout, as we see
it, is rising voter interest.
This may sound uncommon. But it is understandable when we look
back on what this nation has come through in its encounter with
election-based democracy.
Like in many other places, as the elements of civic culture
emerge and evolve, politics appeals less to individuals.
But the newfound effectiveness of popular disapproval has
undoubtedly stimulated the average Chinese's interest in political
participation.
Years back, mass protests ignited by the tragedy of Sun Zhigang,
a migrant worker beaten to death by police in southeastern
Guangdong Province, led to nationwide change of rules on migrants
administration.
A very significant change on the Chinese political theatre is
the ordinary citizens' asserting their rights when injustice is
felt. Such cases as an individual citizen suing a central
government ministry were simply out of the question in the
past.
The governments' and the legislatures' unprecedented
responsiveness to public concerns in recent years has been another
catalyst for the popular sense of efficacy.
And there is the growing sense of relevance that has come along
with transparency. As people know more about what those supposed to
represent them are talking about at national and local law-making
bodies, and see that they are voicing and dealing with their
practical concerns, they care more about how laws and rules are
being made and enforced.
It was good to see election organizers' arrangements for some
candidates to communicate face-to-face with their constituencies.
Personal knowledge about their would-be representatives is
conducive to voter confidence.
Different from previous years, more people may have appeared at
the voting booths believing his or her choice may make a
difference.
Their job as voters is done. The rest is up to those elected. It
takes a lot to be a competent representative.
(China Daily November 9, 2006)